24/12/2020: Have a Merry Christmas/Festive season and please stay safe...
On behalf of the Greater Brooklyn Residents association we warmly wish you all a safe, relaxing and happy Christmas and festive time. And that you stay safe as we want to engage with you in 2021. Especially in the water and especially around our southern coast.
And we are well looked after by our emergency services - in particular the Police Marine section active today rescuing a kayaker off the south coast...
"Maritime rescue at Red Rocks "
A person was rescued today today by the Police Maritime Unit on board the Lady Elizabeth IV after being swept out to sea in a kayak by wind and a strong current.
They had launched their kayak at Red Rocks and intended on fishing close to shore, however shortly after their kayak capsized a few hundred metres offshore.
They were swept further out to sea by strong local currents before they managed to get back on the kayak.
When they tried to paddle back to shore, the 25-knot offshore wind prevented them making any headway.
They then capsized again but managed to deploy the anchor to stop them being swept further out to sea.
They lost their handheld VHF during the capsize and crawled onto the upturned kayak.
Their cell phone was protected by a waterproof bag, but they were unable to call for help as there was no coverage in the area.
To top it off their life jacket had promptly deflated.
Luckily a keen-eyed person on top of the hills noticed them struggling in the water and called Police.
A mayday was broadcast and the Bluebridge ferry ‘Straitsman’ helped Police by stopping mid journey to assist with locating the person.
They were pulled from the water by Police at about 3pm.
Senior Constable Kyle Smith of the Wellington Maritime Unit says things could have easily ended differently.
“Although the man had enough equipment for his undertaking, a number of things went wrong leaving it up to chance that he was rescued today.
“Police would like to remind people not to underestimate the weather forecast, check your equipment is working and always let someone know what your plans are.”
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
You can also view this release, including any additional images, on the NZ Police app or at: www.police.govt.nz...
Noho ora mai,
New Zealand Police
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
-
76.3% Yes
-
22.3% No
-
1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
-
82.1% Yes
-
15.2% No
-
2.7% Other - I'll share below